The Golden State Warriors entered their second-round tussle with the Minnesota Timberwolves with massive disadvantages. While the Wolves took care of the Lakers in just five games, Golden State was involved in a grueling seven-game battle with second-seeded Houston. This gave Stephen Curry and Co. just one day’s rest between their final matchup with the Rockets and their first against Minnesota. Well, things only got worse as the Dubs lost their franchise player, Stephen Curry, early in the second quarter of the game due to a hamstring strain. So, the Warriors were in dire need of some offensive firepower.

While the Warriors rallied to an early 14-point lead against Minnesota, they looked in danger without their superstar. With Curry out of the picture, the Warriors’ offense seemed lackluster, and even if their defense was trying to fend off any serious comeback attempt from Anthony Edwards and the Wolves, they needed a spark. All eyes were on Jimmy Butler, the self-proclaimed Robin, who stepped up, but even he needed a breather. So, who could Steve Kerr trust when even Butler was not on the floor? Four minutes into the third quarter, the Warriors’ HC turned to a rather surprising option in former lacrosse star Pat Spencer.

Despite just getting a total of 250 minutes in the regular season, Kerr put his faith in the 28-year-old combo guard. Although he wasn’t perfect, his effort and control were more than enough to lead the Warriors to a swift victory. By doing so, Pat Spencer also redeemed himself for his actions in Game 5 against Houston. The Warriors guard was ejected late in the game after he head-butted Alperen Sengun. It all started when Dillon Brooks grabbed a rebound and got pushed by Spencer to the ground. Sengun then walked over to the Dubs star’s face, which prompted Spencer to head-butt him, resulting in an ejection. Soon, a fine also followed.

After the game, NBC Sports’ reporters were as eager as the fans to know how Spencer covered the fine. “The fine was covered. Well, you know what half of it was covered. I’m going to put that out there. Half of it was covered. We’re working on the other half right now.” Spencer joked about the fine as he burst into laughter along with the reporters. “I’m playing. I’m playing. These guys have had my back all year. I’ve gotten a… I’m probably tech per minute, I might be leading the league. So these guys don’t owe me anything.”

The Warriors guard suggested that someone within the franchise covered half of the fine, but he didn’t speak about the amount or who covered it. He then sarcastically talked about how he could be leading the league in technical fouls per minute. Nonetheless, he was happy after a huge win in Game 1 against Minnesota. However, the worries have only compounded for the Warriors.

The burden increases for the Warriors amid Stephen Curry’s untimely injury

Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors have managed to nick a win despite missing Stephen Curry, things are about to get much worse before they get any better for the Dubs. According to reports, after an MRI exam on Wednesday, it has been confirmed that the veteran superstar has suffered a hamstring strain. The team has stated that Curry will be sidelined for at least a week before he can make a comeback to the floor. With Game 2 set to take place on Thursday, followed by the series heading to San Francisco for Games 3 and 4. The earliest possible return for Curry appears to be Game 5.

This is a massive blow for the Warriors, who’ve earned a crucial 1-0 lead. Curry has already missed multiple games this season because of injuries, and Golden State have struggled without him.  “Yeah, unfortunately, stuff went down, and you know I’ve just had to stay ready these whole playoffs. So, hoping to get him back ASAP, but just staying ready, trying to be a professional.” Spencer said while speaking with NBC Sports.

The 28-year-old could be one of the players who’ll see their burden increased in Curry’s absence. Spencer went 2-of-4 from the field and had two rebounds and a pair of steals in 10 minutes of action. But Steve Kerr could give him more minutes after a solid performance in Game 1. However, the onus of carrying the Warriors’ offense will most likely be on Jimmy Butler and an in-form Buddy Hield. It will be interesting to see how Kerr approaches this situation with their postseason at stake.

Will the Warriors stay afloat until Curry’s return? Only time will tell.